Aviation

More options for Air New Zealand’s youngest customers

The Air New Zealand designed Skycouch, a row of three Economy seats that convert into a flat, flexible surface for rest, relaxation and play, was first introduced in 2011 and has revolutionised long haul travel in the Economy cabin.

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The airline has now further developed the product, introducing a dedicated infant harness and belt, allowing infants to remain lying down throughout the cruise phase of flight. Previously they were required to be seated on a guardian’s lap when the seatbelt sign was on. A new infant pod also provides additional comfort and protection for the airline’s youngest Skycouch customers.

The Skycouch Cuddle Belt, which was previously only certified to allow two adults or an adult and child travelling together to lie down side by side on the Skycouch has also been updated to allow two children to use it providing greater flexibility to families.

Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience Anita Hawthorne expects the changes to be popular with family groups.

Pending certification and regulatory approvals, the airline plans to make the modified Skycouch product available progressively onboard its Boeing 777 and 787-9 Dreamliner fleets in the coming months.

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These improvements will also be made available to offshore airlines which Air New Zealand has licensed the Skycouch to. The airline will be displaying the updated Skycouch at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg from 10-12 April 2018.

Aviation

Flames on the Runway: Russian Jet Sparks Emergency in Turkey

A dramatic incident unfolded at Turkey’s Antalya Airport on Sunday night when a Russian passenger plane caught fire shortly after landing.

The Azimuth Airlines Sukhoi Superjet 100, arriving from Sochi International Airport in Russia, was carrying 89 passengers and six crew members. Thankfully, all onboard were safely evacuated without any injuries reported.

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The fire broke out after the aircraft landed at 9:34 p.m. local time, prompting the pilot to issue an emergency call. Evacuation footage shared by Russian media site ЧП Сочи captured the tense moments as passengers slid down emergency slides, with some seen carrying large pieces of luggage despite the urgency of the situation.

The Russian Sukhoi Superjet in Turkey tonight, which crashed upon landing.

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Investigators at the time highlighted the critical impact of passengers retrieving their belongings, which obstructed others from escaping the burning aircraft.

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Although no injuries were reported this time, the episode serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing life over possessions during emergencies. Seconds can mean the difference between survival and tragedy in such situations.

In response to the incident, Turkey’s transportation ministry confirmed that efforts were underway to remove the damaged aircraft from the runway. While arrivals at Antalya Airport were temporarily suspended, departures continued from a nearby military-operated runway to minimize disruptions.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but the swift evacuation ensured a safe outcome for everyone on board.